COLCHESTER Zoo has announced it is increasing the prices of Zoo Passes due to “rising costs”.

The annual passes allow members to experience the zoo on a regular basis, alongside many other benefits such as entry to annual special events, shop discounts and more.

The zoo has now announced it will be increasing the prices slightly to help battle rising costs the attraction is facing.

The price increases are as follows:

  • Adult (16-59) – Price until April 16: £69.99. Price from April 17: £70.50 
  • Child (3-15) – Price until April 16: £49.99. Price from April 17: £50.50
  • Senior (60+) – Price until April 16: £59.99. Price from April 17: £60.50.

Gazette: Colchester Zoo said it has been absorbing many of its rising costsColchester Zoo said it has been absorbing many of its rising costs (Image: N/A)

A statement reads: “It is our priority to ensure everything we offer is focused on giving our visitors that first-class experience at an affordable cost and continue to provide great value for money.

“However, amidst rising costs, which we have been absorbing until now, we have to look at our annual price increases carefully.

“Please be reassured that we have done all we can to keep costs as low as possible during these challenging times.

“We understand how the current inflation is affecting everyone and have taken this into account.

“Our general admission and Zoo Passes have not increased as much as needed to cover our increasing costs because we are committed to remaining affordable and hope that by keeping our prices as low as possible you will continue to support Colchester Zoo with your visits.

“There is no doubt that we are in a challenging climate but hopefully together we can get through this difficult period which we feel could be financially harder than the pandemic.

“We understand that this price increase will be met with disappointment, but we thank you for your understanding.

“You can renew or purchase a Zoo Pass before the April 17 to take advantage of the current prices.”

Until April 16, the zoo if offering 60 free days when a new pass is purchased.

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Existing passholders can also chose to either have their renewal discount or the 60 free days.

For more information on the offer, visit bit.ly/3KysjTD.

The zoo also said it is looking to develop more of the attraction, and has big plans for 2023, where it is set to celebrate its 60th birthday.

A spokesman added: “We are continuously developing with visitors and animals in mind. From toilet facilities, food outlets and pathways to improved animal viewing areas and new interactive activities, plus much more.

“This year we are introducing something BIG, the redevelopment of our old displays arena is underway, and we hope this new attraction will be open for Summer 2023.”